Polymers
Save
Polymers are large molecules composed of many repeating units called monomers. They are found in a wide variety of materials, including plastics, rubber, and synthetic fibers. Polymers are classified into two main types: natural polymers and synthetic polymers.
Natural Polymers
Natural polymers are found in plants and animals. Some common examples of natural polymers include cellulose, starch, and proteins. Cellulose is the main structural component of plant cell walls, while starch is a complex carbohydrate that is used as food by animals and plants. Proteins are essential for life and are involved in a wide variety of cellular functions.
Synthetic Polymers
Synthetic polymers are man-made polymers that are created from monomers that are not found in nature. Some common examples of synthetic polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. Polyethylene is used to make plastic bags, bottles, and films. Polypropylene is used to make containers, toys, and fabrics. Polystyrene is used to make foam cups, plates, and insulation.
Properties of Polymers
The properties of polymers vary depending on the type of monomer that they are made from and the way in which they are synthesized. Some of the most common properties of polymers include:
Read more
Polymers are large molecules composed of many repeating units called monomers. They are found in a wide variety of materials, including plastics, rubber, and synthetic fibers. Polymers are classified into two main types: natural polymers and synthetic polymers.
Natural Polymers
Natural polymers are found in plants and animals. Some common examples of natural polymers include cellulose, starch, and proteins. Cellulose is the main structural component of plant cell walls, while starch is a complex carbohydrate that is used as food by animals and plants. Proteins are essential for life and are involved in a wide variety of cellular functions.
Synthetic Polymers
Synthetic polymers are man-made polymers that are created from monomers that are not found in nature. Some common examples of synthetic polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. Polyethylene is used to make plastic bags, bottles, and films. Polypropylene is used to make containers, toys, and fabrics. Polystyrene is used to make foam cups, plates, and insulation.
Properties of Polymers
The properties of polymers vary depending on the type of monomer that they are made from and the way in which they are synthesized. Some of the most common properties of polymers include:
Polymers are large molecules composed of many repeating units called monomers. They are found in a wide variety of materials, including plastics, rubber, and synthetic fibers. Polymers are classified into two main types: natural polymers and synthetic polymers.
Natural Polymers
Natural polymers are found in plants and animals. Some common examples of natural polymers include cellulose, starch, and proteins. Cellulose is the main structural component of plant cell walls, while starch is a complex carbohydrate that is used as food by animals and plants. Proteins are essential for life and are involved in a wide variety of cellular functions.
Synthetic Polymers
Synthetic polymers are man-made polymers that are created from monomers that are not found in nature. Some common examples of synthetic polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. Polyethylene is used to make plastic bags, bottles, and films. Polypropylene is used to make containers, toys, and fabrics. Polystyrene is used to make foam cups, plates, and insulation.
Properties of Polymers
The properties of polymers vary depending on the type of monomer that they are made from and the way in which they are synthesized. Some of the most common properties of polymers include:
- Strength
- Flexibility
- Durability
- Lightweight
- Resistance to heat and chemicals
Applications of Polymers
Polymers are used in a wide variety of applications, including:
- Packaging
- Construction
- Transportation
- Medical devices
- Consumer products
Studying Polymers
There are many ways to learn about polymers. One way is to take an online course. Online courses can provide a comprehensive overview of polymers, including their properties, applications, and synthesis. Another way to learn about polymers is to read books and articles about them. There are many resources available online and in libraries that can help you to learn more about this fascinating topic.
Careers in Polymers
There are many different careers available to people who study polymers. Some of the most common careers include:
- Polymer chemist
- Polymer physicist
- Polymer engineer
- Polymer scientist
- Polymer technologist
Polymer chemists, physicists, and engineers are involved in the research and development of new polymers. They work to create polymers with specific properties that are tailored to specific applications. Polymer scientists and technologists are involved in the production and processing of polymers. They work to ensure that polymers are produced in a safe and efficient manner and that they meet the desired specifications.
Online Courses in Polymers
There are many online courses available that can help you to learn about polymers. These courses can provide a comprehensive overview of the topic, or they can focus on specific aspects of polymers, such as their synthesis, properties, or applications. Some of the most popular online courses in polymers include:
- Introduction to Polymers from edX
- Polymer Chemistry from Coursera
- Polymer Engineering from MIT OpenCourseWare
- Polymer Science from Udacity
- Polymer Technology from FutureLearn
These courses can provide you with a strong foundation in polymers and can help you to prepare for a career in this field.
Conclusion
Polymers are a fascinating and important class of materials that are used in a wide variety of applications. If you are interested in learning more about polymers, there are many resources available to help you get started.
Path to Polymers
Reading list
Save
Save
Save
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
